Departments

Three smiling men pose arm-in-arm in a blue-patterned dining room; the middle chef wears a white jacket and striped apron.

From New to Noteworthy

In just over a year, Brood Restaurant and Bar has become a culinary powerhouse, winning over the hearts — and taste buds — of diners throughout the Roanoke region.
Smiling man with gray hair, glasses and a mustache in a light blue shirt, with a blurred pond and green lawn behind him.

From the Publisher: 50 Years, 500 People, Countless Blessings

In a world where print journalism faces challenges that have eliminated or severely diminished most magazines that were around in 1974, The Roanoker celebrates its 50th in fine form and with a strong eye toward its future.
A hand holds a faded print of a brown high-rise office tower over a sunny city street corner.

The Poff Building

In 1975, Roanoke welcomed a monumental addition to its skyline — the Richard H. Poff Federal Building, a landmark in both size and significance.
Black-and-white view of a grand stone palace facade with a Union Jack flag, a sentry at the entrance, and an empty paved forecourt.

The Royal Flush

A Roanoke novelty company once caused an international stir with the House of Windsor.
Martin is a friendly face at the Hollins Theatre, mentoring students year-round as they pursue careers in the performing arts.

Do You Know… Wendy-Marie Martin?

The chair of Hollins University’s undergraduate theatre department uses her international experience and inclusive philosophy to create a transformative and collaborative theatre environment.
The Spot on Kirk’s intimate space makes every show a crowd-pleaser.

An Intimate Music Gem

Known for its unique atmosphere where audiences are fully immersed in the music, The Spot on Kirk offers a diverse array of performances and fosters a strong sense of community.
February 1990 Roanoker cover showing a bearded man resting his head on his hand, headline "Roanoke Art.

Iconic Re-Creation: Eric Fitzpatrick

Our 50th anniversary issue's cover re-creation is thanks to Eric Fitzpatrick, an award-winning and beloved local artist who paints with either hand.
Dana “Gig” Edwards sits in Gig Edwards Studio in one of the old chairs from his father’s school.

Generations of Style

A glimpse into the Edwards family school, a downtown Roanoke institution since the 1960s, where tradition, community service and resilience are woven into every haircut.
Pops of color and cozy furniture pieces make it hard to believe that Motel Studios is housed in a true commercial space.

Conjuring Creativity

A new community-focused art studio has set up shop in downtown Roanoke.
Angels of Assisi's new location will host 40 kennels, multiple meet-and-greet areas, a "cat condo," room for grooming and more.

New Doggie Digs

The nonprofit animal hospital and adoption center will gradually move into its new (and much larger) location this fall.

Departments

Recreating a Dreamy Blue Kitchen
Features

Recreating a Dreamy Blue Kitchen

Inspired by a beloved former home, this Old Southwest renovation layers sky-blue cabinetry, warm metallic accents, and tailored updates into

The Beaver Dam Sunflower Festival attracts about 20,000 visitors annually — a boon to the local economy.
Features

Bloom Town

Flower farms are finding new ways to keep our community beautiful.

Painted wood statue holding a teacup, a chandelier-lit dining room, and a wood-paneled sitting room.
Features

The House on the Hill

Stewardship of the signature structure on the city side of Mill Mountain is in the very conscientious hands of Drs.